Develop HIX Now, MD Official Urges States

An early study by the University of Maryland indicated that implementing the ACA would help the state save $700 million in its budget and reduce the number of uninsured by 50%. A follow up report released last week confirms the savings and estimates that the ACA will generate more than $3 billion in economic activity for the state, an create 26,000 healthcare jobs by 2020.

Brown says Maryland has elected to create its own health insurance exchange because the state has no interest in being part of the default federal exchange. "We believe our exchange must be designed to address Maryland's specific healthcare needs."

He challenged states to take the lead on their own exchanges. "Each state is unique and this is an opportunity to tailor your exchange to meet the specific needs of your state residents."